Two weeks ago, a woman I highly respect lost her husband after battling an illness for over 38 years. Yesterday, I found out another friend lost her husband to a brain aneurysm. A friend's sweet baby boy is currently fighting for his life after brain surgery. A dear friend just discovered she has cancer and is uncertain what steps to take. And my new friend recently signed divorce papers after being married for 22 years.
I'm not even the one going through the loss and trauma firsthand, but my heart is heavily laden. There is so much sorrow processing the war in Israel, and now dear friends grieving the loss of their loved ones is compounding all the emotions.
This post is a reminder to be kind and gracious to one another. We don't know what each other is going through. From those we drive alongside on the road to those we may sit across from at a table, we may all be suffering in one form or another, so let's be empathetic and extend grace.
With the holidays around the corner, there have been extra posts and advertisements about gatherings and celebrations. Usually, I grow in excitement, too, but with the recent news of my friends, I'm trying to be extra sensitive and cautious about what to say and how to be there for my friends.
Some of you may have sojourned down this path before, and then again, some may be experiencing it for the first time. Whatever position you might be in during this holiday season, let's try to discern how we can extend compassion to those who are hurting and suffering. You may have someone close to you or know of an acquaintance in a difficult place; either way, let's try to be conscientious of what we say and do. Demonstrate it in a way they desire it versus how we may want to express it. The attention to detail may make all the difference.
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